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Start Your FREE 2019 MN DVS Practice Test Now

From frostbitten International Falls to the humble shoemakers in Red Wing, traversing Minnesota can be treacherous. Hazards like black ice around for miles make it really important to be familiar with the road rules in the land of a thousand lakes (actually it’s more than that). That’s why we put together this resource filled with just the information you need. Whether you are looking for a learner’s permit or a standard license for operating a car, a motorcycle license, or want to drive a commercial vehicle, we have DVS practice tests that are similar to the real thing. We’ve put together step-by-step instructions to help you pass the first time without hassle.

Unless you are Paul Bunyan or his blue ox Babe, if you want to haul goods from Blue Earth down the highways that line the North Star State, you’ll need a Minnesota commercial driver’s license (CDL). First there will be a fee and in Minnesota the structure is driver’s that want Class A and are under 21 pay $24.25, anyone older pays $44.25, Class B is $36.25 and Class C $29.25. From there you’ll have to deal with the exams and skills tests, with general knowledge and specific questions (70 for class A and 50 for class B or C). That doesn’t even include the questions for any endorsements like passenger and school busses, doubles/triples, tank vehicles, hazardous materials, or air brake restriction removal. To give you the confidence to pass these tests we have practice exams that act just like the real thing, cheat sheets to make sure you are all set for the DVS and more.

Minnesota Driver’s License & Permit FAQ

How Can I Apply for my MN Driver’s License? Frequently Asked Questions

What age must I be in order to apply for my permit in Minnesota?

You must be at least 15 years old in order to apply for a permit in Minnesota.

What documents do I need when I go in to apply for my license in Minnesota?

When you go in for your license, you will need to know your Social Security Number. Be sure to bring documents that prove your first, middle and last name as well as your date of birth. These could be documents such as:

A Certified Birth Certificate

A Certificate of Birth Abroad

A Valid US Passport

An Adoption Certificate

A Tribal Government Identification Card

A Certificate of Citizenship or Naturalization

Also, if you are under 18, be sure to bring your certificate of enrollment (Blue Card) proving you’ve completed driver’s education. The test is free the first two times you take it. If you fail twice in a row, you will need to pay $10 for additional tests. More information about acceptable documents can be found on pages 3-5 of the Minnesota DMV manual or you can check out https://dps.mn.gov/divisions/dvs/forms-documents/Documents/Minnesota_Drivers_Manual.pdf.

How do I qualify for a permit in Minnesota?

In order to get a permit in Minnesota, you must:

Be at least 15 years old

Have your Blue Card indicating that you ‘ve completed at least 30 hours of drivers education (If under 18)

What is the contact information to a Minnesota DVS office?

You can reach a Minnesota DVS office easily. Just call (651) 215-1328 Monday through Friday 8am until 4:30pm.

Who should bring me for my permit test in Minnesota?

If you are under 18, your parent or legal guardian should bring you. This is because you will need them to sign the application packet for you. In particular cases, another responsible adult may sign for you. Check with the DVS office for more details on others who may bring you.

Will I have to get a physical in order to get a license in Minnesota?

Will I have to get a vision test in order to get a license in Minnesota?

Yes. When you go in to apply for your permit in Minnesota, you will be given a vision test. You have to score a 20/40 and your peripheral vision must be at least 105 degrees. If you fail the vision test, you will be asked to see an eye doctor and return the doctors report to the DVS office.

Where can I get my driver’s license photo taken in Minnesota?

Don’t worry about your picture. You will have your picture taken at a Minnesota Department of Public Safety office when you go in to apply for your license.

How do I apply for my Minnesota driver’s license?

Just like in other places, obtaining a license in Minnesota is a process. First, you obtain an instructional permit.

If you are under 18, you must hold it for at least 6 months before moving forward.

If you are 19 or older, you must hold it at least 3 months before moving forward.

It costs $13.25

You may drive anywhere as long as there is a licensed driver age 21 or older with you.

Second, you obtain a provisional license

You must hold it 12 consecutive months with no traffic violations

It costs $15

Third you obtain a Regular D license

It costs $24

What will happen after I apply for my Minnesota driver’s license?

The first step in applying for your license is obtaining the instructional permit. Once you have passed your permit test, you will receive your permit packet. If you are 18 or under, you must wait 6 months and get 30 hours of behind-the-wheel training before you can apply for your road test. If you are 19 or older, you must wait 3 months.

How Can I Get Ready for my MN Permit Test? Frequently Asked Questions

How do I study for the Minnesota permit test?

Studying for the Minnesota permit test is easy. Each chapter of the manual covers different topics such as speed limits, signaling, changing lanes, turning on a red light, passing on the right, backing up, highway parking, following emergency vehicles, watching for pedestrians, night driving, carrying a load, loosing vehicle control and much more. The first thing you need to do is pick up a driver’s manual and begin studying.

Am I required to take driver’s education in order to get a license in Minnesota?

This will solely depend on your age. If you are under 18, yes you are required to take a driver’s education program, as well as a behind-the-wheel program. If you are over 18, no you are not required to take any driver’s education.

Where do I get a Minnesota driver’s manual from?

The entire driver’s manual can be downloaded from our website. You may also go to a local DVS office to get one.

Should I read the entire Minnesota Driver’s Manual for the permit test?

Chapters 3 through 9 of the driver’s manual will cover the actual rules of the road including road signs.

Is there a mobile Minnesota practice test app for my iPhone/iPad?

Yes, there is. For help studying, use this great practice app: DMV Genius, it’s a great way to study for your IN written test!

What are some samples of questions that will be on the Minnesota permit test?

You can expect every question on the permit test to come directly from the Minnesota Driver’s Manual. Here are some examples:

“The proper speed to travel in adverse conditions is _______?”

“When a vehicle is coming towards you with bright lights, you should______.”

“You must yield to pedestrians_________.”

“When driving on the freeway in heavy traffic, the safest way to travel is to_______.”

How is the Minnesota permit test graded?

The Minnesota permit test is graded in an unbiased manner by computer. You are expected to receive 32 out of 40 questions correctly and will receive your score immediately after finishing.

Where do I go to take the permit test in Minnesota?

What should I do the night before my permit test?

After having had one final review, you should put your mind at ease and look forward to the next day.

What’s the average number of people who pass their permit test in Minnesota on the first try?

People ages 16 through 18 tend to easily pass their Minnesota test on the first try. This could be due to the required driver’s education course they take. Most people, who have taken the adequate time to study, find themselves passing their permit test with flying colors. Be sure to study primary sources such as the manual and practice tests and you will do just fine.

How will I know when I’m ready to take my Minnesota permit test?

Have you read and studied the driver’s manual? Have you taken any driver’s education courses (if under 18)? Have you taken practice tests online? Can you easily recall the rules of the road? Can you recognize all road signs? If you answered yes to ALL of these questions, then you are definitely ready for your permit test.

Now that I’m ready for my Minnesota permit test, what should I do next?

Once you have studied the manual, completed some practice tests, and taken a driver’s education course (if under 18), it’s time to go to your local DVS office to take your written exam. On the day of your test, you should bring your certificate of birth, social security number, “Blue Card” (if under 18), school ID with photo (if under 18), and a parent or guardian to sign your permit packet.

When is it ok for me to get my permit in Minnesota?

You have a “Blue Card” proving that you have completed 30 hours of classroom instruction.

You are signed up for behind-the-wheel training.

Your parent or court appointed guardian will sign and approve your application.

What specific documents do I need when I go to take my permit test in Minnesota?

You must bring documents that prove your first, middle, and last name. The documents must also show your date of birth. This document can be a birth certificate, certificate of birth abroad, Valid US passport or Adoption certificate. Also, bring your certificate of enrollment (if under 18), proving that you’ve completed classroom training and are signed up for behind-the-wheel training. You should know your Social Security Number. The test is free unless you fail the first two times then its $10 for each test afterwards. More information about acceptable documents can be found on pages 3-5 of the Minnesota DVS manual or at https://dps.mn.gov/divisions/dvs/forms-documents/Documents/Minnesota_Drivers_Manual.pdf.

How much does the Minnesota permit test cost?

Minnesota permit tests are free for the first two attempts. After that, it costs $10 per test. Once you pass the test you must pay $13.25 for the Instructional Permit packet.

Should my parents take me when I go in to apply for my Minnesota learner’s permit?

If you are under 18, you will need to have your parent or legal guardian bring you. In some cases, another responsible adult may sign instead. Check with your local DVS office for more information.

What should I know in order to pass my Minnesota permit test?

Be prepared to know all sorts of information regarding the rules of the road such as:

Speed and how it decreases your field of vision

Multi-lane round abouts

Right hand lane travel

Parking on a hill

Parking on a highway

It will be in your best interest to study the manual in order to get a good understanding of what questions you will be asked on the permit test.

How many questions are there on the Minnesota permit test?

There are 40 questions on the permit test.

How will I know if I pass the Minnesota permit test?

Minnesota has 40 questions on its permit test. You must answer at least 32 of these questions correctly. If you pass, the computer will let you know immediately.

What’s the maximum number of questions I can get wrong on the Minnesota permit test?

You can miss no more than 8 questions on the permit test.

What common errors should I avoid when taking the Minnesota permit test?

Common mistakes are usually made when a person goes in unprepared. The permit test questions will come from any place in the manual. This is why topics such as drinking and driving laws, driving conditions and impaired driving situations shouldn’t be ignored.

Will I be allowed to use my Minnesota manual on the permit test?

You may NOT use your manual during the DMV permit test. The testing center is a place to demonstrate your knowledge on the rules of the road.

Is a drug test necessary in order to get my permit in Minnesota?

Applicants are not required to take a drug test in order to get a permit in Minnesota.

Where can I see some feedback from people who have already passed their Minnesota permit test?

Visit any of the MN practice tests above -- immediately below the test you’ll see Facebook comments by real people from Minnesota who have either already passed the DMV test or are planning to do so.

What will happen if I fail my permit test?

If you happen to fail your permit test, don’t be discouraged, there’s always tomorrow. Try to pass your test the next time because after your 2nd attempt, you will be required to pay $10 for additional tests.

If I fail the Minnesota permit test, when is the next time I can take it?

You may take your test again as early as you’d like. Just be sure you give yourself ample time to look over your weak areas. After 2 failed attempts, you will have to pay $10 for each test.

Who is allowed to ride in the car with me if I only have a Minnesota permit?

Anyone may ride in the car as long as there is a licensed driver 21 or older in the car with you. You may not use a cellphone and everyone must be buckled up.

What restrictions are there with a provisional license in Minnesota?

For the first 6 months, provisional drivers have a few limitations. They cannot drive from midnight until 5 a.m. (there are exceptions) Only one passenger under the age of 20 can be in the vehicle, unless with a parent or guardian.

Am I permitted to drive anywhere in Minnesota with a learner’s permit?

Yes. You may drive anywhere in Minnesota. Just remember, if you are under 18, you must have a supervising driver 21 or older sitting next to you. You may not talk on a cellphone while driving and everyone must wear a seat belt. If you are 18 or older, you must have a supervising licensed driver who is at least 18 sitting next to you at all times.

What happens after I pass my Minnesota written test?

After you pass your Minnesota permit test, you will receive your permit. If you are under 18, you will have to hold your permit for at least 6 months before you can proceed in getting your provisional license. If you are 19 or older, you will have to hold your permit for at least 3 months before getting your provisional license.

What information do I need when I go in for the Minnesota road test?

You certainly want to make sure you have everything you need for your big day. Arrive at least 15 minutes ahead of your road test appointment and be sure to have:

Your valid learner’s permit that you have held for at least 6 months (3 months if 19 or older)

A good working vehicle with registration and insurance.

A certificate of course completion (“White Card”) proving that you have completed drivers education (if under 18)

Your parent or court appointed guardian’s signature on your application stating that you have driven for 30 hours

What type of things will I have to do on the Minnesota road test?

You must be able to demonstrate your vehicle’s safety equipment such as signal lights, windshield wipers and so on for the road test. After that, you will be tested on the rules of the road as well as your ability to drive under normal traffic conditions. Don’t be nervous. The examiner just wants to see your ability to use good observation techniques.

What should I do the night before the road test?

The night before your road test is the perfect time to do another practice drive. After your last practice drive, gather all of your necessary materials such as your learner’s permit and “White Card” (if under 18) and look forward to a successful road test the following day.

Can anyone take me for my road test in Minnesota?

Your parent, legal guardian or any responsible person (according to DVS standards) must bring you. If you have someone else in mind besides your parents, you should contact the DVS office to see if this person will be acceptable. When you pass the road test, you may apply for your Minnesota driver’s license.

What tips will help me pass my Minnesota road test the first time?

The number one sure way of passing your road test is to DRIVE. The examiner wants to see how well you maneuver in traffic, so using these additional tips will help you ACE your road test:

Check all of your mirrors frequently

Do not follow other cars too closely

Obey all traffic signs

What should I keep in mind when taking the road test in Minnesota?

Once the examiner inspects your vehicle for working brakes, horn, tail lights and directional signals, you will be observed on how well you manage your vehicle along with other cars on the road.

Are there any common mistakes I’d want to avoid when taking the Minnesota road test?

According to the Minnesota DVS manual, these actions will cause you to fail the road test immediately:

Disobeying traffic laws.

Dangerous, careless, or reckless driving, including any action that could result in a traffic accident.

Inability to control your vehicle or complete a maneuver without assistance from the examiner.

Involving your vehicle in an accident that you could have been avoided, even if you are not legally at fault.

Not cooperating with the examiner or refusing to do something the examiner asks.

What will I have to do on the driving test in Minnesota?

You can expect to do things to show the examiner that you are a skilled and responsible driver. The examiner wants to see how well you can handle intersections, lane changes, parking and other situations. You will not be asked to do anything illegal on the road test, so don’t worry.

Yes. Minnesota is one of the many states that require applicants to Parallel Park. Failing to Parallel Park correctly could cause you to have major points deducted and could potentially result in you failing.

May I wear contacts/glasses on the Minnesota road test?

Yes. You are encouraged to wear contacts/glasses on the Minnesota road test if that is what you use to see with.

Who will be allowed in the car with me during the Minnesota driving test?

No other passengers besides the examiner may be in the vehicle while you are taking the test.

What if I fail my driver’s test in Minnesota several times?

If you find yourself failing several times, you need more practice. Your first two tests are free but after the second attempt, you must pay $20 per retest.

I passed my Minnesota road test! What’s next?

After you pass your road test, you will receive a provisional license. With this license, you must not operate a motor vehicle between midnight and 5 a.m. unless accompanied by a licensed driver age 25 or older. Furthermore, only one passenger under the age of 20 is allowed in the car for the first months unless the passenger is a member of the driver’s immediate family. After you have had your provisional license for at least a year without any alcohol/controlled substance violations or crash related moving violations, you may receive your full license.

Are there any limitations on my Minnesota driver’s license after I get it?

Your first license is a provisional license. This license has restrictions such as no driving for the first 6 months between midnight and 5a.m. unless accompanied by a licensed driver age 25 or older. Also, only one passenger under the age of 20 is allowed to ride for the first six months unless the passenger is a member of the driver’s immediate family. After you receive your Regular D license there are no restrictions.

What things should I keep in mind when driving in Minnesota for the first time?

What type of car insurance should I get in Minnesota?

In the state of Minnesota, you must have at least basic liability insurance coverage. Drivers must carry:

$40,000 per person per accident for personal injuries

Minimum $30,000 for injuries to one person and $60,000 for injuries to two or more people

Are there certain documents I will need when getting car insurance in Minnesota?

It isn’t difficult to get car insurance in Minnesota. Be prepared to provide insurance companies with your driver’s license information and vehicle information. You can get car insurance over the phone or online. Proof of driver’s education will often lower your insurance rate.

I failed the road test in Minnesota, when can I retake it?

Unless the examiner says otherwise, you may take your road test again whenever you like. We always suggest that you pay attention to why you failed before going in to take another road test. If you fail the test more than 3 times, you will be charged $20 for each test afterwards.

What happens if I fail my road test in Minnesota?

If you fail the road test, you may retake it once you have had time to improve your driving skills. According to the Minnesota Department of Vehicle Services, you will be assigned practice time that must be completed before you take your next road test. You will have to complete at least 6 hours of behind-the-wheel instruction with a licensed instructor if you fail the road test four times.

Is there an exam when renewing my Minnesota driver’s license?

I’m Moving to Minnesota! Frequently Asked Questions

Will I have to pass a road test when I move to Minnesota from another state, for example Mississippi?

A road test is not required unless your license has been expired for more than a year. If you already hold a valid license, you will only need to pass the written and vision tests. You have 60 days to do so. Be prepared to present your out-of-state license when you go in for your Minnesota license.

Is my out-of-state learner’s permit valid in Minnesota?

Minnesota does recognize out-of-state learner permits. You must adhere to the laws of the state that issued it to you as well as the laws of Minnesota.

How long may I drive in Minnesota with my out-of-country license?

If you are moving to Minnesota from another country other than Canada, you must pass a vision, written and road test before attaining a license. An out of country license is not valid.

Where is the best place to get more information about driving in Minnesota?

General Questions About MN Driving License

When is it legal to drive in the state of Minnesota?

You may drive in Minnesota as early as age 15 if you have a learner’s permit.

What is the legal limit for drinking and driving in Minnesota?

Minnesota is serious about their DUI laws. That’s why it’s best to not drink and drive at all. Too many people have been killed because of this. If you are under 21 years old, the BAC limit is .00%. If you are 21 or older, the BAC limit is .08%.

What is Minnesota’s Vanessa Law about?

Vanessa’s law was enacted in 2004 for drivers 18 or younger. It was set into place after a 15 year old girl named Vanessa Weiss was killed in a car crash by another 15 year old unlicensed driver. Under this law, unlicensed drivers 18 or younger who get a crash-related moving citation or alcohol/controlled substance citation may not receive a driver’s license until age 18.

Here’s What Other Learners from Minnesota are Saying:

"Guys... this is an amazing website! Today I have cleared the Knowledge test with flying colors. 94% The simple magic is to go through the manual couple of times and complete the assignments posted on this website multiple times until you get 100%. These are very helpful."

Maureen C., Minneapolis, MN

"I passed my permit test on the first try! All thanks to this website - all I did was take the practice tests and glanced through the handbook (I scored 86%). I highly recommend this website. If you can pass all the practice tests on here, then you are good to go!"

Maureen Oputa B., St. Paul, MN

"Did all the tests once in the morning half and reviewed all the answers. Felt confident - went straight to the test in the afternoon and passed it. Got 2 or 3 wrong - which was related to alcohol and minimum age for drinking etc. Some of the road signs questions came exactly as it was here and I didn't even read all the options.."

Ravishankar R., Rochester, MN

"I passed my test today with a score of 39/40! When I started the class, my instructor immediately recommended this website. I'm glad it has so many different types of tests to work on specific categories. That really helped!"

Katina G., Duluth, MN

"I took all of the practice tests a little over a week before our Drivers' Ed was to be over....greatest decision ever! I learned a lot and it helped as a refresher for what we would learn in class. The questions are almost exact (if some are not the same thing) as the actual test and it was easy, passed on my first try! Definitely would not have wanted to take the test without using all of the practice ones on the site. Would totally recommend it...thanks driving-tests.org!"

Hope T., Bloomington, MN

"This website was very helpful! This was my first time taking a written test for a driver's permit, and the questions on the actual test were equal to if not easier than what this website prepares you for. I took the tests until I got 100% on all 6, (which really doesn't take long,) and I finished with a 97% on the actual test. The worst part is definitely the nerves, but once you're over that things flow very smoothly. The one question I got wrong was asking about how far away you should drive from a bicycle, (3 ft) which is not covered often anywhere. Thank you Driving-Tests.org!"

Maya M, MN

"Just got back from taking my permit test! I passed with an 89% in about ten minutes, and definitely would not have been able to if it hadn't been for this website. I would definitely recommend it to anyone about to take their test."

Maggie C., MN

"I took my written test for the first time and passed the test. Got only 2 wrong answers. These practice tests are really amazing. I took all the tests available for my state just twice the day before my exam. it really helps . i would recommend to go through the manual at least once."

Mila P., MN

"This site was a great help. Passed today. 20/25. Should have been 22/25. Made two foolish mistakes because i was nervous and didn't take my time to read the options. Did the practice test a number of times and I only read the handbook once. But i would recommend studying the book a little more for inexperienced drivers. Have to schedule a road test soon. Best of luck to you."

G F, MN

"I have failed my permit test at least 4 times, I am 20 years old, about to be 21 in 4 months & don't even have my permit, last Thursday, I did the 6 tests, and repeated them till I got 100% on all of them, I have always had issues with tests, I went and took my test on Monday the 15th & I passed with flying colors & YES, everybody's question: Most of the questions on the 6 tests are on the real one! study, study,s tudy & you'll do great! I never thought I would get mine & I did!"

Andrea Hunt, MN

"Answered 32 out of 33 in less than 5 minutes! Got my learner's permit. All thanks to you! Marathon test covers almost everything. Ran thought it completely 2 times, and that's it! You guys are awesome, Thanks!"

Abhijeet Apsunde, MN

"This was the most helpful free practice test I have taken! Amazing. At the actual exam, I only got one wrong answer and that is because I was feeling over confident. Although you get some survey questions, they are very short, only two per test, which is acceptable given that its free and it works. I recommend it to anyone. Thank you guys!"

Junior Kone, Minnesota

"Took all the tests on this site, got 1 wrong at the DMV today, and I knew the answer, just was too quick on the draw :) Thanks so much!"

Mike G, MN

"I first took the class and everything and failed twice, then I gave up for about four years, and then I started doing these tests for about a week, and I passed the test today! This website is better than the classes!!!! :) "

Jennifer Winston, St. Paul, Minnesota

"Amazing tests. Helped out a lot. Will repeat - amazing resource."

K M, Minnesota

"Hello I passed my test yesterday. I had a score of 87% just because I got in the USA since 2 months and I did not speak English so I was not able to understand certain questions my first language is French. I especially wanted to thank the team of the website because I do almost all my revisions on this site and it has helped me. questions were almost similar. thank you again I have passed my test the first time when my English is not even in point."

O Laure, Minnesota

"Well, I just took my written test today then I passed. This site really helps me a lot. Thank you so much."

Janz Peters, MN

"This is an excellent practice test site. I’ve gone through all the test cycles once in the evening and in the next morning I passed DMV knowledge test. Great site and many thanks."

Shubham Sh, MN

"Hello! I recently got my permit, and I felt really prepared to take my test. I was going into the DMV ready to crush it I was super excited to start driving, but I failed the first test. I realized that I just didn't review enough, that's when I found this site! I heard about it from my friends and thought about giving it a try! I aced my next test no problem and I will never forget the impact this site had on my life! I am forever grateful! This site changed my life and I will pass it on to all of my friends!! Thank you bunches!! "

Hannah Bjurstrom, Minnesota

"I passed my exam today! Thank you so much for this FREE PRACTICE TEST!!! This page helped me a lot :)"

Anabelle Schommer, Minnesota

"Took all the practice tests the day before I went in for my permit exam and passed with 91%. I felt the questions were very well designed and covered everything you need to review from the manual. The combination of the manual and these tests will almost guarantee a pass."

Natron 3030, Minnesota

"Took the test at the DMV today and scored at 91% first try! this site and tests were VERY VERY helpful and many of the questions were on test at the DMV. Just keep taking the practice tests and you will do great!"

Megan Mulford, Minnesota

"Great site!!! I just passed the written test today ONLY because of the this site. Thanks to driving-tests.org team. "

Poorna Chandran, MN

"Today I just passed my test in second attempt and that’s only bcoz of this site it’s a great site really awesome and it really worked, thank u!"

Hassan Mohamed, Minnesota

"Thank u to this site I only spent 1 1/2 weeks on this website on my phone and on laptop it was so much fun like how they give u a hint and if u get the question wrong they explain to u why the answer would be something else. I passed today with only 3 wrong. I love it I will be highly recommending this site to my friends and others. Thanks Driving-Tests.org I really appreciate ur contrubution to helping others out."

Joshua Anderson, Minnesota

"Thank you so much for your practice test.. I’ve been studying for like 2 weeks.. I took the test today and passed with flying colors :)"

Sherry Smith, Minnesota

"These tests were super helpful in getting ready for the motorcycle knowledge (written) test. I went through each test a time or two, read through the handbook and passed the test know problem! Thanks!"

Gabe Hendry, MN

"These were very helpful for my MN Motorcycle Permit test. I took the test last week. A great help!"

Robyn H, Minnesota

"This was the best practice permit out of all the ones I tried! I finally have passed my permit test!! Wooooohoooooo!!!!!"